PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals are preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft with the 16th overall pick after concluding their 2024 season with an 8-9 record. This year, they aim to build on recent free agency acquisitions by focusing on strengthening key positions through the draft.

The team recently signed outside linebacker Josh Sweat and defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson to enhance their pass rush and run defense, respectively. As a result, there is considerable interest in how these additions will influence their draft strategy.

This mock draft tracker is the second of six planned versions that compile expert opinions on potential picks for the Cardinals at number 16.

Defensive tackle Kenneth Grant from Michigan is one of the prospects linked to the Cardinals. Despite already signing Tomlinson and retaining L.J. Collier, experts suggest further bolstering the interior defensive line could be beneficial. James Foster from The 33rd Team commented, "Arizona signed Josh Sweat and retained Baron Browning, so they beef up the interior of their defensive front with Kenneth Grant." Joel Klatt from Fox Sports added that Grant could address run defense issues immediately.

Offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas is another candidate for selection. Known for his reliability at left tackle since his freshman year in Austin, Banks has drawn attention for his versatility along the offensive line. Kyle Stackpole from CBS Sports remarked on Banks' potential impact: "Whether Kelvin Banks Jr. plays guard or tackle, the Cardinals will be happy to have him protecting Kyler Murray."

James Pearce Jr., an edge rusher from Tennessee known for his speed and effectiveness in pressuring quarterbacks, is also under consideration despite character concerns raised during his Pro Day. John Kosko of PFF highlighted Pearce's strengths: "The Cardinals lacked a true pass rusher in 2024... Pearce was arguably the best pass rusher in college football."

Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M presents a high-potential option as well but requires development to maximize his abilities as a pass rusher. Nate Tice and Charles McDonald of Yahoo Sports noted Stewart's raw talent: "Stewart is raw but talented... His stock only rose after a good combine performance."

Grey Zabel from North Dakota State stands out among offensive guards due to his performance during college all-star games and scouting events, which have boosted his draft profile significantly.

Other players mentioned as possibilities include cornerback Will Johnson (Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN), wide receiver Matthew Golden (Dan Wilkins, The Score), defensive lineman Derrick Harmon (David Helman, Fox Sports), wide receiver Luther Burden III (Chris Trapasso, CBS Sports), defensive tackle Walter Nolen (Josh Edwards, CBS Sports), and linebacker Jalon Walker (Marco Enriquez, Pro Football Network).